Suicide trend dismays Texans LB Cushing

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Inside linebacker Brian Cushing didn’t know Titans receiver O.J. Murdock, who died in Tampa of a self-inflicted gunshot wound, but he had an opinion on the tragedy.

“I was shocked when I heard about it,” Cushing said. “I can’t imagine what their organization’s going through. I can’t imagine what it would be like if that happened to a teammate of ours. It’s tragic.

“I don’t want to say it’s a trend, but there’s too many instances of this happening. I think if they can get to the bottom of it, everyone will really appreciate it.”

In less than two years, three former NFL players — Dave Duerson, Ray Easterling and Junior Seau — died of self-inflicted gunshot wounds.

Competition at cornerback
With starting cornerback Kareem Jackson missing a few practices with a hamstring injury, this is a good time to find a player to play behind him — a role played by Jason Allen until he left for Cincinnati in March. In practice,

Brice McCain, who had an outstanding season as the slot corner, played opposite Johnathan Joseph.

Defensive end from Iowa signs
The Texans signed defensive end Mitch King to replace Tracy Robertson, who was placed on waivers. King, a third-year player from Iowa, was signed to provide depth.

Record number of fans on hand
For the second time in three days, the Texans set an attendance record at their Methodist Training Center.

For the morning practice on Monday, the Texans drew 5,715 fans, breaking the record of 5,012 set Saturday.

There are three more practices fans can attend, and all are sold out. The Texans encourage fans to bring school supplies to benefit children in the Third Ward who are part of the Houston Texans YMCA.